Reviving traditional music: Last round of tappa contest held

PESHAWAR: The last round of Ya Qurban tappa singing contest organised by Directorate of Culture was held at Gor Gathri Archaeological Complex on Sunday. According to Directorate of Culture Director Abdul Basit, the purpose of the event was to revive traditional Pashto music and encourage talent of young musicians across the province. Famous artists like Mashooq Sultan and folklore maestro Zarsanga awarded cash prizes to winners. Ahmad Ali Jan Janan from Peshawar won the first prize of Rs0.3 million, Nabeela Wadood from Malakand Division won second prize of Rs0.2 million and Zarnosh from Mardan Division won third prize of Rs0.1 million. Tappa is a form of Indian semi-classical vocal music. Its specialty is its rolling pace based on fast, subtle and knotty construction. Its tunes are melodious and sweet.

Published in The Express Tribune, December 28^th, 2015.